Preliminaries

Abstract

This book deals with the choice and refinement of forms, particularly of structure and mechanism. This crucial activity occurs towards the end of the conceptual stage of design and right through the embodiment stage. It forms a large part of the most characteristic work of the designer, and it can be highly inventive and elegant. It bears strongly on both the performance of the product and its cost of manufacture, and it is also a prime determinant in appearance and in the satisfaction of ownership.